EMG4755 vs EMG4763 — Compare

EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black vs EMG 60-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

The EMG 85-8XH prioritizes maximum output and tight low-end clarity with Alnico V magnets for aggressive metal and djent, while the EMG 60-8XH balances articulate midrange with dynamic headroom and X preamp control for progressive and modern metal styles. Choose the 85-8XH for maximum aggression in drop tunings; choose the 60-8XH for tonal versatility and touch sensitivity.

No sales tax on orders shipped outside California — total cost beats national retailers that charge sales tax in nearly every state.

EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$139.00
View EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

EMG 60-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

$139.00
View EMG 60-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

Specs side by side

EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in BlackEMG 60-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black
Price$139.00$139.00
BrandEMG PickupsEMG Pickups
ConditionNewNew

Why choose EMG 85-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ Higher output voltage (3.10 V per string, 4.50 V strummed) for maximum aggression
  • ✓ Alnico V magnets deliver tighter low-end and extended-range clarity
  • ✓ Superior noise floor (-101 dBV) ensures cleaner signal transmission
  • ✓ Comprehensive wiring package with 25K potentiometers included

Why choose EMG 60-8XH 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black

  • ✓ X preamp circuit provides dynamic headroom and enhanced touch sensitivity
  • ✓ Balanced output suits both rhythmic definition and lead articulation
  • ✓ Ceramic magnets with steel pole pieces offer focused midrange presence
  • ✓ Simpler single 9V battery power requirement
Bottom line: Metal and djent players seeking maximum low-end punch and aggression should pick the 85-8XH. Progressive and modern metal players who value controlled dynamics and articulate midrange clarity should choose the 60-8XH.

Frequently asked questions

What's the main tonal difference between these two 8-string pickups?

The 85-8XH emphasizes tight low-end fundamentals and aggressive character with Alnico V magnets optimized for drop tunings. The 60-8XH balances midrange articulation with top-end presence and dynamic headroom, suiting progressive styles where touch sensitivity matters.

Does one pickup have significantly higher output than the other?

Yes, the 85-8XH delivers 3.10 V per string and 4.50 V strummed. The 60-8XH combines the original 60-8 output with X preamp headroom, but specific voltage figures for the 60-8XH are not provided, making direct comparison impossible from available specs.

Are both pickups equally suitable for standard 8-string guitar routing?

Both use solderless quick-connect harnesses for straightforward installation. The 60-8XH explicitly features a short shaft configuration designed for standard eight-string humbucker routing without modification, while the 85-8XH includes a comprehensive wiring package but does not specify shaft configuration details.

Which pickup is better for clean studio recordings?

The 85-8XH offers a lower noise floor (-101 dBV at 60 Hz) for cleaner signal transmission to interfaces. However, the 60-8XH's X preamp dynamic control may provide greater recording flexibility for capturing nuanced playing dynamics in progressive styles.

✨
🎸

Welcome! Before we chat…

Drop your name and email so we can follow up if you reach us after hours.

We never share your info.

✨
🟢 Specialist connected